Natural Herb Library

Calcite (Red Gypsum)

Chinese
寒水石
Pinyin
Han Shui Shi
Latin
Calcitum
Scientific specimen plate of Mirabilitum Crystallina, Calcitum, showing calcite masses, cleavage fragments, powder, and diagnostic mineral details.
Botanical plate by Kodi .

Known in TCM as Han Shui Shi (寒水石), this acrid and salty, cold herb enters the Heart, Stomach, and Kidney. Traditionally, it drains Fire and dispels Summerheat; treats high fever, irritability, thirst, and a yellow tongue coating from Excess Heat, most often applied for fever, mouth sores, and sore throat. Modern research has identified Calcium among its active constituents.

Part used: Calcite

Also Known As

Red Gypsum Glauberite

Latin: Calcitum | Pinyin: Han Shui Shi | Chinese: 寒水石

TCM Properties

Taste
acrid, salty
Temperature
cold
Channels
Heart, Stomach, Kidney

Traditional Use

Primary Actions

  • Drains Fire and dispels Summerheat; treats high fever, irritability, thirst, and a yellow tongue coating from Excess Heat
  • Clears Heat and resolves toxicity; used for oral ulcers, sore throat, and swollen tonsils

Secondary Actions

  • Applied topically, ground into powder, for burns and scalds

Classical References

  • Historically confused with Shi Gao (Gypsum) since the Tang dynasty due to overlapping Heat-clearing functions; the two are distinguished by Shi Gao's white, fibrous form versus Han Shui Shi's pinkish, mineral form
  • In some regional trade the name has also referred to natural mirabilite crystals (sodium sulfate); modern commerce and this record's pharmacopoeia Latin (Calcitum) identify it as calcite or red gypsum rather than mirabilite

Modern Research

Active Compounds

  • Calcium carbonate (calcite) or calcium sulfate (red gypsum), depending on regional source
  • Trace mineral elements

Studied Effects

  • Mineral composition studied mainly for quality-control and identification purposes given documented historical confusion between distinct minerals traded under this name
  • Traditional Heat-clearing use lacks dedicated modern clinical trial support

Safety & Interactions

Contraindications

  • Cold from Spleen-Stomach deficiency
  • Absence of true Heat signs

Cautions

  • Source identity varies regionally (calcite vs. red gypsum vs., historically, mirabilite); verify supplier identification given the documented naming confusion
  • Not for prolonged use

Conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Calcite (Red Gypsum) used for?

Calcite (Red Gypsum) is traditionally used to Drains Fire and dispels Summerheat; treats high fever, irritability, thirst, and a yellow tongue coating from Excess Heat, Clears Heat and resolves toxicity; used for oral ulcers, sore throat, and swollen tonsils. Research has investigated its effects on: Mineral composition studied mainly for quality-control and identification purposes given documented historical confusion between distinct minerals traded under this name; Traditional Heat-clearing use lacks dedicated modern clinical trial support.

What are other names for Calcite (Red Gypsum)?

Calcite (Red Gypsum) is also known as Red Gypsum, Glauberite. In TCM: 寒水石 (Han Shui Shi); Calcitum.

Is Calcite (Red Gypsum) safe during pregnancy?

The safety of Calcite (Red Gypsum) during pregnancy has not been established. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use.

What are the contraindications for Calcite (Red Gypsum)?

Calcite (Red Gypsum) should not be used in: Cold from Spleen-Stomach deficiency; Absence of true Heat signs. Consult a qualified practitioner before use.